Maharashtra Discontinues 92 Lakh Ladki Bahin Beneficiaries Following Verification, 38% Reduction Noted

Maharashtra Government Revises Ladki Bahin Beneficiaries Following Verification Process

The Maharashtra government has removed approximately 92 lakh beneficiaries from the Ladki Bahin scheme, marking a significant decrease of around 38% from the original number of recipients. This change follows a comprehensive verification process aimed at ensuring the programs eligibility criteria are met.

The Ladki Bahin initiative, launched to support women in the state, has come under scrutiny from the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), which flagged an excess expenditure of ₹3,541 crores and raised concerns regarding budgetary lapses in the implementation of the scheme. The CAG report highlighted the need for clearer justification for the funds spent under the program, questioning the prioritization and efficiency of expenditures related to womens welfare.

The CAG also noted that the Ladki Bahin scheme substantially impacted the states womens welfare budget, increasing it by approximately 12,700% within a year. Most of the beneficiaries dropped from the scheme were reported from Beed district, which has prompted discussions around regional disparities in program access and the management of welfare schemes.

The government has stated that the decision to drop beneficiaries was made to ensure that only eligible women receive assistance, but further details on the criteria used in the verification process have yet to be established. As the situation evolves, stakeholders and beneficiaries are encouraged to stay informed about the future of the scheme and potential reforms.